Chaplains offer comfort to mourners queuing to see the Queen

Chaplains from different faiths and denominations have been offering a comforting word to the thousands of people queuing to see the Queen lying in state.

The chaplains have been chatting with people waiting in line and offering prayer where requested.

The queue stretches nearly three miles along the Thames, from beyond London Bridge to Westminster Hall where the Queen will lie in state until 6:30am on Monday.

Some people waited several days to file past the Queen, spending a soggy Tuesday night camping out to ensure their spot.

The chaplains will accompany the crowd during day-light hours over the next few days.

They will be recognisable by their hi-vis vests with 'Faith Team' printed on them. 

The Church of England has been involved in organising the chaplaincy service in partnership with the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.

Priests from across the Diocese of London and Southwark volunteered for the service and were given an induction by the Spiritual Care Team at Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust.

Southwark Cathedral, which sits next to London Bridge, said it was "delighted" to be one of the chaplaincy hubs for the queue. 

The Salvation Army is also providing refreshments and first aid hubs along the route.

"We're doing our bit," the Church and charity said. 

Newsletter Stay up to date with Christian Today
News
Cuban pastor's son at risk following months-long detention
Cuban pastor's son at risk following months-long detention

The family has long been a target for Cuban authorities

IDF soldiers jailed for desecrating statue of Mary
IDF soldiers jailed for desecrating statue of Mary

It's not the first time IDF soldiers have been disrespectful of Christian sites.

Why did the Lord speak to Moses in the desert?
Why did the Lord speak to Moses in the desert?

Numbers 1:1 goes: ‘And the Lord spoke to Moses in the Sinai desert.’ But why is the desert the best place to receive this teaching?

Labour presses on with controversial plans to ban 'conversion therapy'
Labour presses on with controversial plans to ban 'conversion therapy'

Critics of the plans fear that ordinary Christian practices will be criminalised.